Freight Train Derailment in Connecticut Sparks Shelter-in-Place Advisory Amid Hazardous Material Concerns
February 5, 2026
Hazardous materials teams are on scene; heavy cleanup equipment, including cranes, are en route with the operation expected to take several days.
A freight train carrying flammable liquids derailed in Mansfield, Connecticut, triggering a shelter-in-place advisory for residents within about a half-mile of the area as responders work to secure the scene.
State Police and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection are providing updates as more details become available.
Emergency crews, including first responders and emergency response contractors, are on scene, with state environmental staff assessing potential releases and overall containment.
Two of the derailed cars contained liquid propane and several cars ended up in the river or on the banks; one grease car leaked about 2,000 gallons of animal fat but this material was contained and did not enter the water.
The current update notes no active leaks at the moment, with ongoing monitoring and containment efforts to stabilize the site.
Route 32 is closed between Route 44 and North Eagleville Road as responders from multiple agencies manage the scene.
Hazardous materials involving flammable liquefied gas have prompted a response from the state DEEP Emergency Response Unit and other agencies.
Air monitoring is underway; initial guidance suggested evacuations might be necessary, but officials later indicated none were required.
A prolonged cleanup is anticipated, with residents advised to stay indoors and avoid the area while authorities monitor for leaks and containment measures continue.
There have been no injuries reported, and authorities are monitoring for potential gas leaks while securing and assessing the area.
Officials are coordinating with town leadership and note the broader hazardous materials transport context, providing contact information for follow-up.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources

AP News • Feb 5, 2026
Freight train derails in Connecticut | AP News
HuffPost • Feb 5, 2026
Freight Train Derailment Causes Liquid Propane To Spill Into River
The Boston Globe • Feb 5, 2026
Conn. train derailment: Train carrying liquified natural gas derails in Mansfield, Conn.